The Golden Triangle in India is a tourist route that connects three of the country’s most iconic and culturally rich cities: Delhi , Agra and Jaipur . This circuit forms an equilateral triangle on the map, hence its name, and is a perfect introduction for those visiting India for the first time. Delhi, the capital, is known for its blend of Mughal history and urban modernity. Agra is famous for being home to the Taj Mahal , an architectural marvel on the banks of the Yamuna River. Jaipur, the capital of Rajasthan, captivates with its fairy-tale-like forts and palaces. Together, these cities offer a window into India’s rich history, architecture and traditions. In this blog post we’ll start with Agra, but if you’d like to read more about the other two cities that make up this tourist triangle, click here to read about Jaipur or click here to read about New Delhi .
We arrived in Agra
We landed at the military airport in Agra, where we had to pay a mandatory fee without prior notice to board the bus that takes us to the exit. Ranjeet from the Rajasthan Driver Tours company was waiting for us there, and he accompanied us the rest of the way (at the end of this blog you have more information in case you want to contact him).
On the way to the hotel, the city of Agra surprised us at times. You came across more westernised bars and buildings (keeping many distances) while you also came across some of the most authentic neighbourhoods in India. A nice city, nothing more.
The Agra hotel
Taj Mahal
After talking about the hotel, it's time to talk about the important thing, the great wonder that resides in Agra, the Taj Mahal . I didn't have many expectations for this monument, I thought it would be the typical pretty thing that you have to see, crowded with tourists, but it wasn't like that at all.
The Taj Mahal exceeded all my expectations. Although I had heard a lot about this monument, I was not prepared for the magnificence I witnessed. As I approached the Taj Mahal, I was amazed by its elegance and symmetry. The white dome and minarets were reflected in the water of the ponds, creating a dreamlike image. Despite the number of tourists, the atmosphere was pleasant and respectful. It is recommended to go early in the morning to avoid some of the crowds, especially if you want to take photos at the entrance.
The white marble inlaid with precious stones and Arabic calligraphy is a testament to Emperor Shah Jahan's undying love for his wife Mumtaz Mahal. The gardens surrounding the Taj Mahal, which are sometimes overlooked, are an oasis of peace and equally spectacular.
The Red Fort of Agra
Transportation Tips in India
In India, the two most common options for getting around the country are: hiring a private driver or traveling by train. We were able to experience both methods of transportation, but on this last trip we decided to hire a private driver. a private driver from RAJASTHAN DRIVER TOURS , run by Ranjeet.
The advantages of hiring a private driver include flexibility in planning your trip, freedom from train and/or flight schedules, comfort and safety. The disadvantages may include loss of immersion in Indian culture and higher cost compared to travelling by train.
The truth is that we had no problems with Ranjeet and he advised us and booked all the guided tours, he met all the schedules and welcomed us perfectly.
The trip cost us €155 per person (there were 5 of us) for 7 days with airport transfer. Choosing a private driver is definitely the best option, especially if they make things as easy for you as Ranjeet does.